Causes of Vaginal Odor

My Vagina is producing a very smelly odor it has been a week now, at times its itching and the color is cream, what could be the problem?
(22 Sep 2009)

(Only for registered users! Login OR Sign Up in just 30 seconds)

The strong odor, the itching and the thickening and discoloration of vaginal fluids are all symptoms of a vaginal infection. Vaginal infections may be caused by a yeast or it can be bacterial in nature. The treatment will depend on the type of infection you have and so you will have to visit your doctor for an accurate diagnosis.

If you have a bacterial infection and you use medications meant for a yeast infection, there will be no improvement in your condition.

A yeast infection occurs when the amount of yeast fungus present naturally within the vagina increase tremendously. Yeast infections are generally caused by internal factors such as poor dietary habits and as a result of using antibiotics.

The most common symptoms of a yeast fungal infection are a very thick discharge that has the consistency of cottage cheese, intense itching and swelling around the vulva. A bacterial vaginal infection is caused by bacteria and causes a burning sensation, a very strong fishy odor and a yellowish discharge.

There are certain hygiene measures that you can take to prevent and reduce both fungal as well as vaginal infections. Make sure that you do not wear tight fitting pants especially those that are made out of synthetic materials. Leotards, pantyhose and biking shorts should be avoided until the infection has been treated successfully. These clothes do not absorb sweat and create a hot damp environment which causes the infection to spread rapidly. You should also wash yourself well with warm water and a mild anti-microbial soap as soon as you wake up and just before you go to bed. This will help to keep the entire area clean and will prevent the infection from spreading. After you wash yourself use an anti-microbial vaginal powder to keep the area clean and dry as this too will help to fight off the infection. Do not scratch yourself no matter how itchy you feel as this will allow the infection to get under your skin and cause even more damage. You can heat a cup of water and add a pinch of turmeric to it along with a few mint leaves. Rinse yourself with this liquid while it is still warm as it will help to alleviate some of the pain and inflammation. Do not use a douche as this will only aggravate the infection. Studies have shown that women who douche have a higher risk of contracting an infection as compared to those who don’t.

answered by a on 22 Sep 2009, 1:34:40

Causes of Vaginal Odor

My Vagina is producing a very smelly odor it has been a week now, at times its itching and the color is cream, what could be the problem? (22 Sep 2009)

My Vagina is producing a very smelly odor it has been a week now, at times its itching and the color is cream, what could be the problem?
(22 Sep 2009)